HIV-related Perceived Stigma and Associated Factors among Patients with HIV, Dilla, Ethiopia: Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background Understanding HIV-related perceived stigma has importance in improving quality of patients and provides a better tackling of HIV stigma. Objective The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of perceived stigma among Patients with HIV attending clinic at Dilla University Referral Hospital. Method In this Institution based cross-sectional study, a 10-item perceived HIV stigma scale was used to assess HIV-related perceived stigma. Oslo social support scale was used to assess social support related factors. Bivariate and multivariate binary logistic analysis were done to identify associated factors to HIV-related perceived stigma Results The prevalence of HIV-related perceived stigma by using perceived HIV stigma scale among Patients with living HIV was 42.7%. Patients who are age groups 25-30 years (AOR=2.8, 95% CI: 5.72-11.5), age groups 31-39 years (AOR=1.11, 95% CI: 1.26,4.65), Females (AOR= 2.4, 95% CI: 1.28- 4.33), divorced marital status (AOR= 8.9, 95% CI: 3.52-10.61), widowed marital status (AOR= 3.0, 95% CI: 2.74-7.60), Primary educational status (AOR=7.5, 95% CI: 3.45-9.74) and Study participants those who use alcohol (AOR=1.0 95% CI: 1.57-2.11) were more likely to have HIV-related perceived stigma. Conclusion This calls a holistic approach for the prevention and intervention of HIV-related perceived stigma. Emphasis should also be given for HIV-related perceived stigma.